University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo, often referred to as “Waterloo,” is a prestigious public research university located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Known for its strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, it is one of Canada’s leading institutions for higher education. Waterloo is renowned for its cooperative education (co-op) programs, which provide students with valuable work experience during their studies. The university is also a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, with close ties to the thriving tech industry in the region, often referred to as Canada’s “Silicon Valley North.” Waterloo is committed to academic excellence and research, making it a significant player in advancing knowledge and fostering innovation.

Accounting and Financial Management
Actuarial Science
Architecture
Arts and Business
Aviation
Biomedical Sciences
Business Administration
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Economics
Electrical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Master of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology (MBET)
Master of Computer Science
Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Master of Engineering
Master of Environmental Studies
Master of Health Informatics
Master of Management Sciences
Master of Mathematics
Master of Public Health
Master of Science
Master of Social Work
Master of Architecture
Master of Applied Science
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Sustainable Energy

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate
Graduate
  • High School Diploma: A high school diploma or its equivalent is required for admission.
  • Required High School Courses: Completion of specific high school courses relevant to your chosen program.
  • Competitive Admission Average: Meeting a minimum admission average or range based on the final grades of required courses.
  • English Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests for non-native English speakers.
  • Supplementary Application (if required): Submission of supplementary materials or participation in interviews for some competitive programs.
  • Co-op Program Requirements (if applicable): Additional requirements related to the co-op component, such as interviews or workshops.
  • Advanced Standing (if applicable): Consideration for advanced standing or transfer credits if you've completed advanced courses, such as AP or IB.
  • Bachelor's Degree: A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is typically required.
  • Program-Specific Prerequisites: Some programs may have specific prerequisite courses or academic backgrounds.
  • Minimum GPA: Meeting a minimum GPA requirement set by the university or the specific program.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Submission of letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.
  • Statement of Purpose: A statement outlining your academic and career goals, often called a "Statement of Purpose" or "Personal Statement."
  • English Language Proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests for non-native English speakers.
  • Research Proposal (for research-based programs): Submission of a research proposal outlining your intended research focus.
  • Portfolio or Audition (for arts programs): Some arts programs may require a portfolio of work or an audition.
  • Interviews (if required): Participation in interviews, if requested by the program.
  • Work Experience (if required): Some programs may require relevant work experience.
  • Entrance Exams (if applicable): Certain programs may require standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT.

Intakes

January May / June September